Traveling with a baby requires careful planning and the right gear to ensure both you and your little one have a comfortable and stress-free experience. Here are some of the best essentials that will make your travels easier and more enjoyable.

1. Joolz Aer+ Stroller
The Joolz Aer+ stroller is a game-changer. This lightweight, compact stroller folds up easily and can be opened with just one hand. Whether you’re navigating through busy airports or strolling through a new city, the Joolz Aer+ is next level convenient.
2. Reliable and Comfortable Baby Carrier
A comfortable baby carrier is essential for hands-free convenience. Look for carriers with adjustable straps, breathable fabric, and ergonomic design to keep both you and your little one comfortable for long periods.
3. Toy Tethers
Keeping your baby entertained while traveling can be a challenge, and when your toddler has an arm on them, toy tethers can save the day. These handy accessories ensure that your baby’s favorite toys stay within reach and don’t end up on the floor. 
4. Easy-to-Use Pack and Play
A lot of times renting a pack and play from your host is a huge help, but if not, a portable pack and play is a lifesaver for overnight stays and nap times on the go. Choose one that’s lightweight, easy to set up, and comes with a comfortable mattress. This will provide a familiar and safe space for your baby to sleep and play, whether you’re at a hotel, a family member’s house, or a vacation rental.
5. Baby Camper Chair
A baby camper chair is perfect for meal times and outdoor adventures. These baby tailgate chairs are lightweight, foldable, and easy to clean, making them ideal for travel. Your baby can sit comfortably and safely at the table, enjoying meals with the family no matter where you are.
6. Busy Book
Keeping your baby entertained during travel is key to a smooth journey. A busy book, filled with engaging activities like puzzles, shapes, and textures, can keep your little one occupied for hours. These interactive books fold up easily and are perfect for plane rides, car trips, and quiet time at your destination.

Traveling with a baby doesn’t have to be daunting. With the right gear, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey for the whole family.  Shop our full list here and happy travels! 

At Beckon Homes, we believe that a well-outfitted kitchen can transform your Airbnb from a simple stay into a memorable experience. We've had the pleasure of outfitting dozens of homes, and we've learned that a few key items can make all the difference. Here are five essentials every Airbnb kitchen should have to ensure your guests feel right at home.

1. High-Quality, Oven Safe Cookware Set 
Investing in a durable, non-stick cookware set is a must. If staying in an Airbnb, guests often prefer the option to cook their meals, especially if they are staying for an extended period. Providing a complete set ensures they have everything they need to prepare anything from a quick breakfast to a full dinner. We love the Ninja Foodi Set, which is oven safe and stands up to frequent use, keeping your kitchen looking great for the long term.
2. Coffee Maker and Supplies
A good day often starts with a great cup of coffee and equipping your kitchen with a reliable coffee maker is key. We love the Keurig Duo because guests have very specific feelings on a single cup vs. a pot of coffee and you can give them the best of both worlds. 
3. Sharp Knife Set
A sharp, well-maintained knife set is indispensable. Dull knives are not only frustrating but also dangerous. Include a variety of knives: a chef’s knife, paring knife, and bread knife are essential. 
4. Dishware and Utensils for a Full Setting
Ensure you have enough dishware, glassware, and utensils to serve the maximum number of guests your property can accommodate. Bonus points if you can overstock to last through a few mishaps.  Including a few kid-friendly options can be a thoughtful touch for families.
5. Wine and Bottle Opener
A wine opener is an essential. If you don't supply one for your guests, you'll certainly hear about it! 

Creating a well-equipped kitchen is a vital part of providing a top-notch Airbnb experience. These five essentials ensure your guests have everything they need for a comfortable and convenient stay. At Beckon Homes, we’re dedicated to helping you create spaces where guests can feel at home and make lasting memories.
​
Please note: Some of the links in this blog are affiliate links, meaning we may earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase. Rest assured, we recommend these products because we genuinely love and use them ourselves, not because of the small commissions we receive. Your support helps us continue to provide top-quality content.

​Summer is here, and it's the perfect time to host an unforgettable pool party. Whether you're planning a casual gathering with friends or a big celebration with family, having the right setup can make all the difference. From setting the mood with twinkling lights to keeping everyone entertained with fun pool toys, here are the must-have items for an epic pool party.

Set the Ambiance 
Creating the right atmosphere is key to any great party. String lights add a magical touch, perfect for when the sun goes down and the party heats up. Outdoor string lights are designed to withstand the elements and create a warm, inviting glow.

String light stakes make it easy to hang your lights anywhere you need. Simply stake them into the ground around your pool area and string the lights up for an enchanting canopy effect. Whether draped over your deck or hung around the pool, they create a cozy, festive vibe.

Enhance your pool's ambiance with solar-powered pool floats. These innovative floats soak up the sun during the day and illuminate the pool at night with soft, colorful lights, transforming your pool into a glowing oasis. 

Entertainment Central
Take your pool party to the next level with a projector and blow-up screen. Imagine lounging in the pool or on a comfy chair while watching your favorite movie or the big game. It’s an entertainment game-changer. Look for a high-quality, waterproof projector and an easy-to-inflate screen that can be set up quickly. Your guests will love this unique feature, making your party the talk of the town.

Stay Toasty with a Fire Pit
Even summer nights can get a bit chilly. A fire pit not only provides warmth but also serves as a cozy gathering spot for roasting marshmallows and sharing stories. Choose a fire pit that is easy to use and matches your outdoor décor. With a flickering fire, you can keep the party going long after the sun has set.

​Hosting an epic pool party is all about creating the right atmosphere and having the right essentials. With our expert picks found in our Amazon Prime Storefront, your pool party will be one to remember. Get ready to make a splash this summer!

Now, we want to hear from you! What are you hoping to find on Prime Day? Is there something specific you've been eyeing, or are you looking for inspiration? Share your wish list in the comments, and let’s get ready to score some amazing deals together! Happy shopping, and may your Prime Day be filled with fantastic finds and great savings!
​
Please note: Some of the links in this blog are affiliate links, meaning we may earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase. Rest assured, we recommend these products because we genuinely love and use them ourselves, not because of the small commissions we receive. Your support helps us continue to provide top-quality content.

​Nestled in the vibrant heart of Hillsboro Village, The Austen offers a perfect blend of luxury, comfort, and convenience. This stunning home, meticulously furnished by the Beckon team in 2023, was designed with our guests in mind, ensuring that every need has been accounted for. Whether you're planning a family getaway, a group trip, or an extended stay in Nashville, The Austen provides everything you need for an unforgettable experience.

From the moment you step inside, you'll be captivated by The Austen's elegant charm. The open-concept design seamlessly integrates a gourmet kitchen, dining area, and living space, perfect for entertaining guests or unwinding with loved ones. The first floor hosts a cozy queen bedroom with an ensuite bathroom, while the living room offers a convenient queen sleeper sofa. The third floor features two additional bedrooms—one with two queen beds and another with a king bed, both with ensuite bathrooms. The fourth floor boasts another king bedroom, providing ample space for up to 10 guests. Relax on the serene balcony, sip your morning coffee, and soak in the beauty of the surrounding neighborhood. The private rooftop oasis offers breathtaking views of the city, providing the perfect spot to unwind after a day of exploring Nashville.

​Hillsboro Village is one of Nashville's most sought-after neighborhoods, known for its lively atmosphere and convenient location. The Austen places you within walking distance of local boutiques, charming cafes, and renowned restaurants. Whether you're visiting Vanderbilt University or Belmont University, both just a short stroll away, or planning a night out in downtown Nashville, you're perfectly situated to explore the best of the city. A quick ride brings you to the heart of downtown, where you can experience Broadway's legendary honky-tonks, the Country Music Hall of Fame, and more.

​Whether you're here for a short visit or planning an extended stay, The Austen in Hillsboro Village offers a luxurious and convenient home base for exploring all that Nashville has to offer. Book your stay here today and immerse yourself in the best of Music City!

​Welcome to our newest luxury cabin in the Smoky Mountains, nestled in the beautiful Smith Creek Reserve community in Sevierville. This exceptional property is just minutes from Pigeon Forge and Dollywood, offering an idyllic retreat for large groups and families. With a host of luxurious amenities and stunning mountain views, our five-bedroom, 5.5-bath chalet is the perfect destination for your next getaway.

Our Smoky Mountain cabin features five spacious bedrooms, each with a king bed and ensuite bathroom, accommodating up to 27 guests. The cabin’s layout is designed to provide comfort and privacy for everyone. The theater room and living areas also offer additional sleeping options with queen futons and bunk beds.

Conveniently Located Near Top Attractions
Our cabin is ideally situated for exploring Sevierville and the surrounding areas. Enjoy thrilling rides and entertainment at Dollywood, just a short drive away. Discover the natural beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park with its scenic hiking trails, abundant wildlife, and picturesque views. Cool off in local swimming holes, or embark on a rafting adventure down the Pigeon River.

Enhance Your Stay
To make your visit even more special, inquire about our exclusive rental options, including children's items. Our dedicated team is available 24/7 to assist with recommendations for top local adventures and dining spots, ensuring you make the most of your Smoky Mountain vacation.

At Beckon Homes, we specialize in helping our guests create core memories with their loved ones and we believe the best gifts are those that make everyday moments feel special. This Father’s Day, we’ve compiled our favorite gifts that are perfect for making unforgettable moments with Dad.

​1. Blackstone Grill and Accessories
First up, treat Dad to a Blackstone grill and all the accessories that come with it. There’s nothing better than diving into the TikTok rabbit hole of recipes and creating new family favorites together. Don’t forget essential gadgets like a grill light and a meat thermometer to ensure those meals are perfectly cooked every time.
2. Yard Games for Family Fun
Next, add some excitement to the backyard with yard games that everyone can enjoy. From cornhole to giant Jenga, these games are perfect for after the BBQ.  Bonus points if they can turn into friendly drinking games after the kids go to bed, adding a playful twist to your family gatherings.
3. Cozy Fire Pit Evenings
Picture this: roasting marshmallows, making s'mores, and popping popcorn under the stars. A fire pit transforms any evening into a magical experience, perfect for storytelling and bonding around the fire.
4. Outdoor Projector Movie Setup
Lastly, make movie nights extra special with an outdoor projector movie setup.  With cozy blankets, popcorn, and Dad’s favorite films, you’ll create a unique and memorable experience that the whole family will treasure.
5. Hire A Helping Hand To Gift Dad More Time with the Family
Give Dad the gift of time this Father’s Day by booking Beckon Residential to handle household tasks that usually fall on him. From home maintenance to yard work, we’ve got it covered, allowing Dad to spend more quality time with the family. 

As you enjoy these gifts and create new traditions, don’t forget to capture the joy. Take great pictures of the family enjoying these activities and have them printed and framed for the holidays. These photos will serve as a beautiful reminder of the special moments shared and the memories built together.
​
Find all these amazing gifts and more on our Amazon storefront. Let’s make this Father’s Day one to remember, filled with laughter, love, and core memories that will last a lifetime. Happy Father’s Day from all of us at Beckon Homes!

CMA Fest is next week, and whether you're a seasoned festival-goer or a first-timer, it's always good to have a plan. We've gathered some essential tips to help you make the most out of your CMA Fest experience. From downloading the essential app to packing the right gear, here's everything you need to know.

1. Download the CMA Connect App
First things first, download the CMA Connect app. This app is a real game-changer and your best friend throughout the festival. Here’s why:

• Lineups and Schedules: With the app, you’ll have the complete lineup and schedules right at your fingertips. You won’t miss a single artist!
• Ticket Management: Purchase, view, and manage your tickets directly from the app.
• Interactive Maps: The app includes maps showing all the different concert stages, hydration stations, sensory-friendly spaces, and more.
• Weather Alerts: Stay updated with the latest weather alerts to plan your day accordingly.

2. Know the Concert Times
Timing is everything, especially at a festival with so much going on. Here are the key times to remember:

• Nissan Stadium Concerts: These start at 8 PM every night. Expect some of the biggest names in country music to perform here.
• Ascend Amphitheater Concerts: These shows begin at 7 PM and feature incredible performances in a beautiful outdoor setting.
• Daytime Concerts: Spread throughout downtown Nashville, these concerts start as early as 10 AM. Be sure to explore different stages and discover new artists.

3. Pack Smart
Packing the right items can make or break your festival experience. Here’s a checklist of must-haves:

• Cashless Payment: Many vendors at CMA Fest are cashless, so bring your credit or debit cards.
• Sunglasses: Protect your eyes from the sun and look stylish while doing it.
• Sunscreen: With long days outdoors, sunscreen is essential to protect your skin.
• Comfy Shoes: You’ll be on your feet a lot, so wear comfortable shoes.
• Small Bag or Regulation Clear Bag: Keep your belongings safe and easily accessible. Note that some venues may require clear bags for security reasons.

​
4. Stay Hydrated and ComfortableWith all the excitement, it's easy to forget to stay hydrated. Make use of the hydration stations scattered throughout the festival grounds. Also, take advantage of sensory-friendly spaces if you need a break from the crowds and noise.

CMA Fest is an incredible experience filled with great music, vibrant energy, and unforgettable moments. By following these tips, you'll be well-prepared to enjoy everything the festival has to offer. So, download the app, know your concert times, pack smart, and most importantly, have a safe and amazing time!

See you there!! 

Looking for a more extensive list of what to pack? Check out our Amazon Storefront where we have compiled a few must haves for music festival season! 

Please note: Some of the links in this blog are affiliate links, meaning we may earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase. Rest assured, we recommend these products because we genuinely love and use them ourselves, not because of the small commissions we receive. Your support helps us continue to provide top-quality content.

In today’s competitive short-term rental market, simply listing your property on Airbnb isn’t enough. To ensure your listing stands out and reaches potential guests, it’s crucial to understand and leverage Airbnb’s algorithm. At Beckon Homes, we’ve honed our strategies to consistently optimize our listings and maximize their visibility. Here’s how you can do the same.

Understanding the Airbnb Algorithm
Airbnb’s algorithm prioritizes listings based on factors like responsiveness, accuracy, guest satisfaction, and activity. Regular engagement and updates signal to the algorithm that your property is active and well-maintained, increasing the likelihood of your listing being shown to potential guests.

Key Strategies to Optimize Your Airbnb Listing

1. Update Your Listing Title and Description Regularly
   Keep your listing title and description fresh and engaging. Highlight new amenities, recent upgrades, and nearby attractions. 
2. Add High-Quality Photos
   Regularly update your gallery with high-quality images that showcase your property, local attractions and unique features. 
3. Engage on Social Media
   Sharing your listing and engaging with potential guests on social media drives traffic to your Airbnb page and boosts visibility. Use relevant hashtags and keywords to reach a broader audience.
4. Adjust Pricing Frequently
   Use dynamic pricing strategies to keep your rates competitive. Manually adjusting prices occasionally can signal to the algorithm that your listing is active. Mention special offers in your listing description to attract bookings.
5. Respond to Reviews Promptly
   Guest reviews significantly impact your listing’s ranking. Respond to every review promptly and professionally. Highlight positive reviews in your description to attract new guests.
6. Update Calendar and Availability Regularly
   Keep your calendar up-to-date to reflect true availability. Block off unavailable dates and ensure guests can book instantly. Frequent calendar updates indicate active management to the algorithm.
7. Utilize Airbnb’s Tools and Features
   Use Airbnb’s tools like “Experiences” and “Special Offers” to attract more guests and increase activity. Promote these offers in your listing description to draw attention.
   
   

The Importance of Activity
Every action you take—updating photos, changing the title, or adjusting the price—signals to Airbnb’s algorithm that your property is active. This increased activity can improve your listing’s ranking and visibility.
​
Staying Consistent
Consistency is key when optimizing your Airbnb listing. Regular engagement ensures your property stays competitive. At Beckon Homes, we follow a meticulous 52-point checklist to ensure every aspect of our listings is optimized.

Stay Proactive
Optimizing your Airbnb listing is an ongoing process that requires attention to detail and a proactive approach. Regular updates, guest engagement, and leveraging platform features can improve your visibility and attract more bookings. Stay proactive and engaged to see your bookings grow.

At Beckon Homes, we’re dedicated to helping you succeed in the short-term rental market. With our expert team and proven strategies, we can take your listing to the next level. If you’re looking for Airbnb management or need help optimizing your listing, we'd be glad to help! Contact us for a consultation and discover how we can help maximize your rental income and enhance your guest experience. 

A Decade of Excellence
Beckon was born on the back of a napkin in 2013 and officially launched in 2015. Over the past decade, we've navigated three election cycles, half a dozen natural disasters, a global pandemic, a travel boom, inflation, and economic fluctuations. Throughout it all, we've managed a short-term rental portfolio worth $150 million and welcomed about 250,000 guests. We've seen and done it all, and each season has brought new challenges, crossroads, decisions, and technology.

Our Founding Promises
In reconnecting with our owners lately, I've realized it's hard to quantify, let alone qualify, the attention we bring to the homes we work in and the owners we care so deeply about. Shaun and I founded Beckon with two promises to ourselves and each other:

1. We would only work with people (clients, team members, contractors) who were "brunch" people—those we'd happily spend a Sunday morning over pancakes dreaming with.
2. We wanted to make our corner of the world a better, more beautiful, equitable, and kinder place.
​
Bridging Hospitality and Home
Managing properties for us is about creating a beautiful, comfortable place for our guests to gather, celebrate, grow deep roots and memories, and invest in meaningful vacations with meaningful people. For our owners, our mission is to maximize their investments from both a revenue-generation perspective and in the capital preservation and improvements of their properties. All too often, we tour new properties managed by other companies to find tens of thousands of dollars worth of repairs, improvements, or renovations needed due to a lack of attention and care.

The Current Landscape​
As of May 2024, the environment is no longer the "easy money" era that followed Covid. With inflation and interest rates higher, and domestic travel opening up, travelers now book higher-end travel less often. In these harder times, our job becomes exponentially more important. We fight for every reservation, every dollar, every guest, and every owner.

Our Commitment to Excellence​
1. Recurring Monthly 50-Point Marketing and Hospitality Audit:
Our team spends time in each listing daily, manipulating listing quality by changing titles, picture captions, offering special coupons, soliciting add-on days, manually overriding our automated pricing algorithm, and more. These "simple" pings are a complex web of actions we've developed to keep your property listed as high as possible in search results. Each action pings the search algorithms on each platform, hopefully rewarding us with more interest in our listings.
2. Routine, Preventative, and Proactive Maintenance:
We understand a well-maintained property is no longer a "nice to have" but a necessity. Our master carpenter and facilities manager are on staff and on call, not just to respond to guests, but to spend meaningful time in each property to suggest or make improvements to its overall condition. The average property has someone spending a minimum of 6 hours per week in it—cleaning, inspecting, repairing, and reporting.
3. 24/7/365 Responses:
Your guests receive 24/7/365 responses via text, phone, and email from our highly trained, thoughtful, and kind team. The human element often makes the difference between a negative and positive review, especially during challenging times. Our team has considered every touchpoint of every stay, ensuring guests never feel deserted, even in unprecedented circumstances.
4. Leveraging Technology and AI:
Our tech stack, including property management software, operations software, pricing algorithm software, and AI, helps us manage properties masterfully. We invest in these tools to make management seamless for your guests and as profitable as possible for you. Our AI tools scan guest messages and reviews, creating task reports to assign to our team, ensuring everything a guest notices gets addressed.
5. Listing Your Property Across the Universe:
Our reach has now surpassed over 17,000 sites! Our main hubs are Airbnb, VRBO, Expedia, Tripadvisor, Whimstay, and Marriott, but our partnerships extend far beyond, ensuring your property is seen by potential travelers everywhere.
6. Revamping Our Financial and Reporting Systems: So much of this industry is so new. We were one of the first-of-its-kind companies to manage vacation homes and rentals, and the backend of the business is still catching up. This year, we revamped our financial reporting and just this month, we've launched access to your statements directly in your owner portal. We have big plans to continue to share transparently with our owners and want you to be able to see, on demand, anytime something is going on at your property. We also have plans to allow you to pay all property-related expenses directly via credit card, maximizing your gross revenue numbers for business building or funding purposes...and of course- those airline miles!
​
Embracing the Future
We understand that the impact of our work is hard to feel when numbers are down, which, transparently, they are across all of our markets and properties right now. This is typical of an election year, especially given the current market conditions, but we know this doesn't make it easier to hang in there.

Optimism and Commitment​
Despite the challenges, we remain committed to supporting you and your home while providing excellent service. Over our decade of service, we've seen time and again that what goes down always comes back up. The wait can be frustrating, but we believe in what we do, what you've invested in, and what lies around the bend. This belief is reinforced not only by our past experiences but also by our meetings with venture capital firms, mentors, and industry professionals.

While the current environment may not be reassuring, we will continue to fight hard for you and your home. We believe that the tide will turn, the cream will rise, and we intend to be there alongside you.

Thank You

Thank you for your trust, confidence, and business. We're honored to partner with you.

Isabeau and Shaun